UH Benefactor John Q'Quinn Dies

Oct. 29, 2009

My friends in the UH community:

It is with deep regret and sadness that I inform you that the University of
Houston has lost one of its most dedicated and passionate supporters. John
O'Quinn died this morning, reportedly in a one-car accident on Allen Parkway,
near downtown Houston.

O'Quinn, a noted attorney and UH Law School alumnus, served on our UH System
Board of Regents from 1993 to 1999, holding the office of vice chairman from
1994-96.

He worked tirelessly in behalf of this university and was one of its most
generous financial contributors. The O'Quinn Law Library and O'Quinn Field at
Robertson Stadium are the most prominent examples of his philanthropy at UH but
are by no means the extent of it. Over the years, he made numerous gifts,
including significant donations to the UH Library and to the Cougar Marching
Band. A good deal of this school's success can be credited to John's unflagging
commitment to making UH a better institution.

On a personal note, I saw John recently, visiting with him at our homecoming
football game against SMU. He was filled with his usual Cougar spirit and
enthusiasm. The team's triumph, plus our national ranking, only added to his
excitement. I am glad to have that wonderful memory of an exuberant John,
reveling in the victory. But, win or lose, John was always unwavering in his
support of the team and this university.

Our campus mourns the loss of one of its most devoted friends and
benefactors.